Hurtigruten’s ‘Open Village’ Initiative: A Gentle Solution to Overtourism

Hurtigruten has introduced its "Open Village" initiative aboard its coastal voyages in Norway, aimed at addressing the challenges of overtourism in popular European destinations. Through this program, guests will have the opportunity to explore remote communities like Traena, Bessaker, and Saebo, accessible only via smaller Hurtigruten vessels.

The initiative, effective from May to September, focuses on experiences curated in cooperation with local residents, providing an immersive look into village life. Travelers can engage in various activities at no additional cost, while Hurtigruten promises to donate NOK 250 (approximately €20) for each guest visiting these small towns, economically supporting communities with populations under 1,000.

Each village offers unique experiences. For instance, in Bessaker, guests can enjoy walks through heritage sites, traditional music performances, and local culinary delights like home-made sodd (meat soup), coffee, and cake. In Saebo, activities include fjord-side concerts and visits to the Avalanche Centre, promoting a deep cultural appreciation of the area. Traena, known as one of Norway’s oldest fishing communities, allows for self-guided explorations through curated booklets featuring local museums and historical buildings.

Odd Tore Skildheim, Hurtigruten’s Head of Product Development, emphasizes that this initiative deviates from traditional high-volume tourism, fostering meaningful interactions between visitors and locals. Community leader Knut Johan Monkan notes that the visits are vital for local businesses, highlighting the collaborative nature of this tourism model, which focuses on sustainability and direct economic benefits.

Ultimately, Hurtigruten’s Open Village initiative exemplifies a more conscious approach to tourism, contrasting with typical crowded cruise itineraries by prioritizing local engagement and supporting the longevity of small Norwegian coastal villages.

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